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Drunks given bubbles to curb violence

Drunken revellers in Bolton are to be asked to blow bubbles in a move to reduce violence.

Police Community Support Officers will hand out the children's toys on Saturday nights in December under the Be Safe Partnership scheme, according to the Daily Mail.

It is hoped that those intent on violence and vandalism will instead turn to the toys for entertainment as they leave the town's pubs and clubs.

The scheme has attracted some criticism, with Taxpayers' Alliance chief executive Matthew Elliott branding it "bonkers".

"People want the police fighting crime, not handing out nursery school gimmicks. If this money isn't needed it should be given back to taxpayers, not squandered," he said.

However, Bolton councillor Elaine Sherrington stood by the plan, saying: "The bubble pens are a great idea to keep things light-hearted. Town centre revellers will have something fun to focus on as they leave pubs and clubs.

"The run-up to the festive period should be full of fun, not problems with drunkenness or rowdy behaviour."